With fluttering
eyelashes and a smile the receptionist at King's College London
will greet you and give you directions to your destination. She may
also comment on your clothing or the weather. She tends to be a
little grumpy on a Monday but by Friday she's cheerful and looking
forward to her weekend.
So far, much the same as many office receptionists around the world
- the big difference is that this particular receptionist, Inkha,
is a robot.
Built by master's students in the Department of Mechanical
Engineering, Inkha (Interactive, neurotic King's head assembly)
handles a third of all front desk enquiries, giving out directions
and event information.
Her probation period over, Inkha looks set to be an integral part
of KCL's reception team for the foreseeable future and
beyond.